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Fertility experts in pioneering 'Mediterranean diet' IVF study

Fertility experts in Southampton are trialling the use of omega-3 fish oil and vitamin D to improve outcomes after in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

In a pioneering study, researchers will identify how two different diets taken six weeks prior to treatment – known as the preconception period – affect the quality of sperm and egg cells, the resulting embryo and the environment of the uterus into which it must implant to achieve a pregnancy.

A total of 110 couples planning to undergo IVF will take part in the preconception dietary supplements in assisted reproduction (PREPARE) trial, which is being conducted at Complete Fertility Centre Southampton and funded by the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre in nutrition.

The team will also use a cutting-edge incubator, known as an Embryoscope, to view fertilised eggs round-the-clock and look for any key changes during transition to embryos.

The state-of-the-art device is fitted with time lapse video monitoring technology to enable the researchers to closely analyse the quality of the embryo and assess its chances of developing into a pregnancy.

“Some recent studies suggest a Mediterranean diet rich in vitamin D and omega-3 might improve the outcome from IVF, but the idea is yet to be tested in a proper randomised trial,” explained Professor Nick Macklon, medical director of Complete Fertility Centre Southampton and a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at the Princess Anne Hospital.

“Despite various attempts to make breakthroughs, good evidence of the effects of diet on fertility is lacking, largely due to the rigorous nature and long durations of diet plans which fail to reach completion.”

Prof Macklon, who is also chair in obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Southampton, said a recent Southampton study in rodents found dietary manipulations within a very short period around the time of implantation had profound effects on early development.

“The results of a similar study in rodents has given us an indication of possible outcomes and we are confident the short duration and simplicity of PREPARE will improve willingness to participate and compliance with the diet.

“As a result, the study should provide us with complete and substantial data on this subject area for the first time.”

He added: "Should a significant positive impact on early development be demonstrated, it would have major implications for health policy and strengthen arguments for the provision of preconceptional nutritional advice to the general population."

Couples interested in taking part can contact Complete Fertility Centre Southampton on 023 8120 6980 for more information.